Local agencies partner for annual 'Shop with a Hero' day

Kids in need can "Shop with a Hero" today, thanks to the work of local businesses and law enforcement officials.

Midwest grocer Meijer, with headquarters in Grand Rapids, has partnered with Oakland County police and fire departments, allowing hundreds of kids to have the chance to shop for their families this holiday season.

In Oxford Township, Meijer has partnered with six local agencies, including fire and police departments in Oxford, Orion, Independence, Oakland, Brandon, Addison and the Oakland County Sheriff's Office.

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The Waterford Township Police Department, in collaboration with Meijer, Waterford Coalition for Youth and Bryan's Neighborhood Coney, were able to make the 24th year of "Shop with a Hero" another great success for 48 children in need on Saturday.

This will be the Oxford Township Meijer's fifth year participating.

Meijer spokeswoman Christina Fecher said that along with the several police and fire departments involved in "Shop with a Hero," the Oxford Addison Youth Assistance Group, the Oakland County Credit Union and the 24th Street Sports Tavern deserves some recognition.

"The Oakland County Credit Union provides money for each of the (participating) families to take home a meal, and the 24th Street Sports Tavern provides meals at the actual event," said Fecher.

She said local "heroes" will be shopping with between 100 and 150 children in Oakland County this year.

The program is also fortunate enough to match last year's donation amount and will spend $150 on each child Thursday.

"The Deputy Sheriff's Association will donate hundreds, which will add to the kitty, and each deputy is going to bring a present for each kid," said Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard.

Fecher said: "Meijer is truly happy to partner with families to help these kids have a wonderful holiday. We have more than 100 events like this throughout the Midwest each year."

Bouchard said the kudos go to Meijer for being great corporate citizens.

"They spend a significant amount of time, resources and energy for this event and they do it every year," said the sheriff. "They are to be tremendously thanked."

Bouchard said he will attempt to make it out if he can.

"This is one of the fun things and I'd love to be there if I'm able," he said.

Meijer is a Michigan-based family and company, and Bouchard said he thinks it's important that they consistently give a great deal back to the community.